Pulmonary Emphysema

Pulmonary Emphysema

Emphysema is a chronic respiratory illness wherein over-inflation of the alveoli or air sacs results in a disease of the respiratory system and frequently dyspnea.

Pathophysiology

Alveolar membranes are impacted by emphysema, which results in the breakdown of the alveolar wall and the absence of elastic recoil. Additionally, this harms nearby pulmonary capillaries. Passive expiration is hampered and the air is trapped in the alveoli due to the loss of elastic recoil. Gas exchange is reduced when pulmonary capillaries are reduced. The respiratory bronchioles can be the primary site of emphysema, with delayed alveolar damage, or both the respiratory bronchioles and alveoli can be affected.

Types of Emphysema

• Centrilobular Emphysema.
• Panlobular Emphysema.

Causes

• Heavy cigarette smoking.
• Deficiency of alpha-1-antitrypsin.

Symptoms

• Breathing difficult,
• Barrel-shaped chest,
• Chronic cough,
• Tiredness,
• Bluish lips,
• Swollen ankles and legs,
• Insomnia,
• Headache,
• Fatigue.

Diagnosis

• Chest x-ray,
• Pulmonary function tests,
• ABG,
• Pulse Oximetry.

Treatment

• Corticosteroid,
• Bronchodilator,
• Oxygen therapy,
• Cessation of smoking,
• Antibiotic,
• Postural drainage.

Nursing Management

• Limiting exposure to fumes and dust.
• To aid in liquifying respiratory secretions, give lots of fluids.
• Avoiding high altitude, harsh cold, and heat.
• Maintaining a sufficient intake of nutrients.
• Offer a diet heavy in protein
• Supportive counseling was provided.
• Advisory against smoking
• Encourage the patients to practice deep breathing and coughing.
• Keep an eye on the vitals.
• Frequently alter the patient's position.

Prevention

• Avoid smoking.

References

• emedicine.medscape.com/article/298283-overview
• https://radiopaedia.org/articles/pulmonary-emphysema
• www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/emphysema/basics/definition/con-20014218
• www.webmd.com/lung/copd/emphysema-symptoms